Jessica Benham (36)

Jessica L. Benham is a Democratic member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, representing District 36 in Allegheny County, which includes parts of Pittsburgh and suburbs like Baldwin, Brentwood, and Mount Oliver. Elected in 2020 after defeating Republican A.J. Doyle with 63% of the vote, succeeding retiring Democrat Harry Readshaw, she is the first openly LGBTQ+ woman and first openly autistic person in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. A disability rights activist, she co-founded the Pittsburgh Center for Autistic Advocacy in 2014, an LGBTQ+-led group advocating for autistic rights, including Paul's Law . Her priorities include healthcare access, workers' rights, environmental protection, public safety, education funding, and LGBTQ+/disability rights. Notable achievements: Secured millions for district infrastructure, green spaces, education, violence prevention, and safety; in 2024, her legislation regulating pharmacy reimbursement middlemen was signed into law, lowering patient costs.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Alumna of the University of Pittsburgh, where she helped organize a graduate workers' union, gaining experience in collective bargaining.
• Political Experience: Prior to election, served as Director of Development at PCAA, advocating for autism designations on driver's licenses, sensory-friendly spaces, education plans, and employment access for autistic individuals. Has consulted on Pittsburgh City Council gun legislation and state healthcare efforts. Re-elected in 2024, continues focusing on labor-endorsed issues like clean energy and fair wages.